Perry Martin Eker

Perry Eker, a good man whose life was marked by adventure, hard work, and love of his family, passed away peacefully after his battle with lung cancer on Thursday, June 12, 2025. Born on May 22, 1951, in Kansas City, Kansas, Perry’s life led him from the challenges of the oil fields to earning a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Mesa State College, and finally to the open road as a skilled truck driver.

As a child, Perry was athletic, loved baseball and dreamt of becoming a professional player. Though his path led him elsewhere professionally, he found joy in coaching his own children and later teaching some of his grandchildren the game he adored. Known affectionately as a "fun dad," he was dedicated to his family. In his free time, Perry enjoyed the simple life. He loved to care for his lawn, enjoyed gardening, especially growing tomatoes and cucumbers, and fishing. He could often be found tinkering in his garage, sometimes working on his antique classic blue Ford truck. Perry spent many quiet moments on his back porch, sipping coffee, watching the birds, and pondering life. A philosophical soul, Perry enjoyed reading and learning from books.

Perry’s travels took him to 49 of the 50 states, living in Colorado, California, Montana, and Kansas. Perry had a great love of the mountains, and was especially fond of his time living in Grand Junction, Colorado.

Perry will be greatly missed by his beloved wife, Jean Eker; his four children, Jacob Eker and his wife, Lauren; Melissa Eker and her husband, Aleko Khundadze Sr.; Danikka Bateman and her husband, Blair; and Josh Eker and his wife, Rebecca. He is also survived by his nine grandchildren: Kylie Eker, Garrett Eker, Aleko Khundadze Jr., Luke Kennedy-Eker, Wesley Bateman, Tristan Eker, Rylan Eker, Soren Eker, and Hayden Eker. He is also survived by his sisters, Charlotte Eker and Paula Eker, and his brother, Mark Eker. Perry was preceded in death by his brother, Lance Eker, who passed away at a young age. Perry was blessed with a large and loving family, encompassing both the Eker and Andersen families.

In his last days, Perry said, “Don’t pay attention to the destination, it's all about the journey. Enjoy what you have while you can.”

Perry is now moving on to his last great adventure.

A Celebration of Life for Perry will be held Monday, June 16, 2025 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at McGilley & Frye Funeral Home, 105 E Loula St, Olathe, Kansas 66061.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Arbor Day Foundation: https://shop.arborday.org/